Berlin University DAAD MIDE Scholarship in Germany 2026/27

Germany has long been a global leader in providing high-quality, accessible education to students from across the world. For the 2026/2027 academic cycle, the Berlin University of Applied Sciences (HTW Berlin) is officially accepting applications for the DAAD MIDE Scholarship. This prestigious, fully funded award is part of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) program, specifically designed for professionals from developing and transitional countries.

The Master’s in International and Development Economics (MIDE) is an 18-month, intensive program taught entirely in English. It offers an incredible financial package, including a €11,208 annual stipend, full tuition coverage, and additional family support. If you are passionate about solving the economic challenges facing the “Global South,” this scholarship provides the perfect platform.

In this guide, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of the scholarship benefits, academic requirements, and the step-by-step application strategy to help you secure your spot in Berlin.

DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026/27 Summary

- Host Country: Germany
- Host Institution: HTW Berlin (Berlin University of Applied Sciences)
- Program Name: International and Development Economics (MIDE)
- Category: Postgraduate | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: Developing and Transitional Countries
- Reward: Fully Funded | €934 Monthly Stipend (€11,208/Year) | Family Allowance
- Duration: 18 Months
- Deadline: August 31, 2026
- Scholarship Alerts: To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, click HERE

What is the DAAD MIDE Scholarship?

The MIDE program at HTW Berlin is the largest of its kind in the city. It is specifically tailored for students who have a first degree in Economics, Business Administration, or Social Sciences with a focus on economics.

The curriculum is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in international organizations, government ministries, and NGOs. By focusing on the unique economic structures of developing nations, MIDE graduates gain the analytical tools needed to manage global economic affairs and development projects effectively.

Financial Benefits: What is the Reward?

The DAAD EPOS scholarship is famous for its comprehensive coverage. Beyond just paying for school, it ensures that your life in Germany is comfortable and focused on your studies.

1. Monthly Stipend: You receive €934 per month (€11,208 annually) to cover living expenses, food, and personal needs.
2. Health & Liability Insurance: Full coverage for health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
3. Travel Allowance: DAAD pays for your flights to and from Germany, provided these aren’t covered by your home country.
4. Rent Subsidy: In certain circumstances, scholarship holders receive a monthly subsidy to help with Berlin’s housing costs.
5. Family Support: If you are traveling with a spouse or children, you may be eligible for a monthly family allowance.
6. Full Tuition Waiver: All university fees for the 18-month program are covered.

Academic and Professional Requirements for DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026

Because this is a professional scholarship, the criteria go beyond just your grades:

- Nationality: You must be a citizen of a developing or transitional country.
- Work Experience: You must have at least two years of relevant professional experience since graduation (at the time of application).
- Academic Recency: You should not have graduated from your last degree more than six years ago.
- First Degree: A university degree with at least 180 ECTS credits.
- Economics Focus: Your transcript must show at least 15 ECTS in Economics (or roughly 3 specific modules in Economics).
- English Proficiency: While TOEFL/IELTS are preferred, they are not required if English was the official medium of instruction for your first degree. Official proof from your university is needed.

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Who Should Apply for This DAAD MIDE Scholarship?

- Economic Researchers: Individuals working in think tanks or research institutes in developing nations.
- Government Officials: Professionals in Ministries of Finance, Trade, or Development.
- Social Scientists: Graduates who want to specialize in developmental policy.
- International Dev Professionals: Those working for organizations like the UN, World Bank, or regional NGOs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Missing the Work Experience Mark: If you have only 23 months of experience by the deadline, you will be disqualified. It must be a full 24 months.
2. Unsigned Documents: The DAAD is very strict about signatures. Your CV and Motivation Letter must be hand-signed and dated.
3. Vague Motivation Letters: Don’t just say you like economics. Explain how the MIDE program will help you solve a specific problem in your home country.
4. Incorrect CV Format: You must use the Europass CV format. Using a standard resume will lead to rejection.

Tips to Increase Your Application Success

- Highlight the “Link”: In your motivation letter, clearly connect your past work experience to the MIDE curriculum and your future career goals.
- Grade Explanation: Ensure you include a document explaining your university’s grading system (e.g., what score constitutes an “A” or “First Class”).
- Focus on Economics Modules: If your degree was in “Business,” make sure to highlight the specific Macroeconomics or Microeconomics modules you took to meet the 15 ECTS requirement.
- Proof of Instruction: If you are opting out of IELTS, get a stamped “English Medium of Instruction” letter from your university Registrar.

Required Documents Checklist for the DAAD MIDE Scholarship

- Europass CV: Dated and personally signed.
- Letter of Motivation: Max 2 pages, signed and dated.
- Degree Certificates & Transcripts: Certified copies with English/German translations.
- Grading System Explanation: To help HTW Berlin understand your CGPA.
- Proof of Work Experience: Letters of recommendation or employment certificates on official letterhead.
- English Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL or Proof of Medium of Instruction.
- Passport Copy: Clear scan of the bio-data page.
- Secondary School Leaving Certificate: Including the date of graduation.

How to Apply for Berlin University DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Verify that your country is on the DAAD list of developing countries and that you have exactly 2 years of post-graduation work experience.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Draft your Motivation Letter and Europass CV. Get your academic documents translated if they are not in English or German.

Step 3: Complete the MIDE Form

Download the specific MIDE application form from the HTW Berlin website and fill it out electronically.

Step 4: Online Submission

Upload all your documents as PDF files through the MIDE online application portal. Ensure every document that requires a signature is signed by hand, scanned, and uploaded.

Step 5: Deadline Tracking

Submit your application before the August 31, 2026 deadline. Shortlisted candidates are usually contacted for interviews in the months following.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Is the GRE required for the MIDE program?
No, the MIDE program at HTW Berlin does not currently require GRE scores for admission or scholarship consideration.

2. Can I apply if I have a degree in Engineering?
Only if you can prove you have taken at least 15 ECTS (3 modules) in Economics and that your career path is now focused on development economics.

3. Does the scholarship cover my family?
Yes, under certain circumstances, DAAD provides a monthly allowance for accompanying family members and a rent subsidy.

4. Is there an application fee?
Applying for the DAAD scholarship via the university is generally free, but always check the university’s specific portal for any administrative processing fees.

5. How long is the MIDE program?
It is an 18-month program (3 semesters). The scholarship covers the entire duration.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Deadline: August 31, 2026

NextGen Scholarship Support Services

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